Question

What is Human Microbiome and state the importance of Human Microbiome

Answer 1

What is Human Microbiome :-

• The collective genome of all micro-organisms contained within the human body, residing inside tissues & bio-fluids is called Human Microbiome. It includes bacteria, archaea, fungi, protists and viruses.

• Most of them have either commensal (co-exist without harming humans) or mutualistic (each benefit from the other) relation.

• The composition of microbiome is shaped by factors such as genetics, dietary habits, age, geographic location and ethnicity.

• Human microbiome makes up around 2% of the body mass of the adult. There are 10 times as many outside organisms as there are human cells in human body.

Importance of Human Microbiome :-

Microbial communities play a key role in many aspects of host physiology :

• Metabolism of otherwise complex indigestible carbohydrates and fats

• Production of essential vitamins.

• Maintaining immune systems.

• Acting as a first line of defense against pathogens.

• Determines how one responds to a particular drug treatment.